Amends indigency definitions and procedures for reassessment of indigency status in Massachusetts.

This bill amends the definition of "indigent" in Massachusetts law to include those receiving certain public assistance or with income at or below 125% of the federal poverty guidelines. It also changes the term "inmate" to "prisoner" in relevant statutes. The bill mandates that courts reassess a person's indigency status if there is doubt, with the chief probation officer preparing a written report. If the reassessment shows the person no longer meets the indigency definition, the court must revoke the appointment of counsel and allow a reasonable continuance for new counsel.

Amends indigency definitions and procedures for reassessment of indigency status in Massachusetts.

This bill amends the definition of "indigent" in Massachusetts law to include those receiving certain public assistance or with income at or below 125% of the federal poverty guidelines. It also changes the term "inmate" to "prisoner" in relevant statutes. The bill mandates that courts reassess a person's indigency status if there is doubt, with the chief probation officer preparing a written report. If the reassessment shows the person no longer meets the indigency definition, the court must revoke the appointment of counsel and allow a reasonable continuance for new counsel.